Saturday Night Live is a live sketchcomedy series broadcast on NBC. It debuted in 1975, making it one of the longest running entertainment programs aired on television. Though it debuted to lukewarm appeal, the series has become a cultural icon and has produced some of the most well known comedic actors in entertainment, including Phil Hartman, Mike Myers, Adam Sandler and Chris Rock.

The series' format has remained more or less the same since its debut. After a cold opening (capped with the phrase "Live from New York, it's Saturday Night!"), the opening credits roll with voice over from announcer Don Pardo and the guest host for the week performs a monologue. Following the monologue, the guest host performs in a variety of sketches with the cast members which typically take on a form of social or political commentary. At several points in the show, the musical guest for the episode performs and Weekend Update gives a comedic take on the news. Occasionally, an episode will also include a prerecorded segment like a commercial parody, TV Funhouse, a short film or a Digital Short.

Saturday Night Live has been broadcast at 11:30PM on Saturdays for the entirety of its broadcast run. Episodes shortened aired on E! and Comedy Central.